Question Number: 32172

Law 5 - The Referee 1/16/2018

RE: competitive Under 18

Alex Botero of fort collins, colorado USA asks...

I just completed my referee course this past Saturday, and I'm pretty excited to start reffing. I got a confirmation email saying that I will receive a packet shortly with an ID card and more (wasn't specific on what else). It also said that I don't need the ID card to start reffing, because I appear as a registered ref, but didn't say anything about my badge. Can I ref a game before I receive my badge?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

HI Alex, congratulations, welcome to the ranks of the men in black, as long a you are registered within your own association I do not see any issue. I do not know of your ambitions but 18 is a good age to began the journey to WC level or even if only for fun or recreational purposes. Have fun out there, give a good effort , review each match, seek out support, training and mentoring. Get those assessments and work your way up the ladder . Be FAIR not perfect! Your word & actions means something, stand for integrity, compassion and courage on or off the FOP & most of all remember to breath and laugh for a referee without humour is riddled with doubt! Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Alex Well done and welcome to refereeing. As to the badge it is a symbol of your certification as a referee. If you are assigned games then the assignor has noted you are a registered referee and allocated you a game. By all means officiate the games and the badge and ID will come in due course. Many in the game do not pay much attention to the badge or the date on it so no one is likely to question a badge less shirt. Sometimes I use old badges and no one notices. It is important though that when been observed to have the proper attire and current badge. Observations will come in due course as you progress. Best of luck with it. I hope you enjoy it. While it can be difficult and daunting at the start practice and experience will improve your ability and with it your enjoyment.Feel free to ask questions on the site as they arise for you.

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Ask The Ref ( Ask The Soccer Referee ) is a volunteer organization paid for by sponsorships. Licensed Soccer Referees make up our international panel. We respond to numerous soccer questions related to the rules and regulations of soccer which is governed by FIFA. 5/24/2018